Payal Shrishrimal a multitalented artist from Rajasthan

Payal Shrishrimal is an artist who sees beauty and creativity in everything around her. Being diagnosed with muscular dystrophy at a very young age has not deterred this talented and natural artist from sharing the beauty of her art with others. Payal has what most others don’t, an extremely positive mindset, bold future aspirations and an unyielding smile on her face.

Payal Shrishrimal lives in Barmer , Rajasthan a small but popular tourist place. Payal was diagnosed with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), when she was seven years old. Her parents were told by doctors that she might not have a long fulfilled life. Payal is continuing to beat all odds and has busied herself in the world of creating art.

“I was told that her condition has no cure. We decided to let her do things that she likes. Payal was always good at arts and now she has made her own identity. She is so full of positive energy that nothing can stop her from reaching her goals,” says Payals’s mother who has been the pillar of strength and support for her.

Duchenne muscular dystrophy is severe form of muscular dystrophy with no cure. DMD is rare in females and causes extreme muscle weakness, affecting mobility, balance, walking ability etc.

Duchenne muscular dystrophy is severe form of muscular dystrophy with no cure. DMD is rare in females and causes extreme muscle weakness, affecting mobility, balance, walking ability etc.

Apart from creating art in many forms, it is talking about art and beauty that Payal loves. Payal could not complete her education due to mobility issues and shortage of any accessible schools near her. She is interested in various forms of art and creation, be it water painting, sketches, crafts, even designing clothes, Payal loves to learn new skills until she masters them. She is also an exceptionally talented Mehndi/Tattoo artist and can draw with both hands.

Nothing is impossible! I love challenges and trying things that seem impossible. I was not able to get formal education in art or academics due to lack of inclusive facilities around me. I have practiced for years and also taught others and that has helped me improve my own skills.

In 2014, Payal took part in the Miss Wheelchair pageant and was crowned as ‘Miss Beautiful Hair’. She has received several awards for her talent and recently was selected as one of the eight artists chosen from amongst hundreds for the’ Art of Inclusion’ initiative of Indian inclusion Summit. Payal gets tired easily due to her medical condition and has some very challenging days now and then.

“I am interested in Bollywood and modelling and would also like to design costumes. There are many more things that want to do in life. Being a part of the Indian inclusion Summit was a golden opportunity for me and I met so many amazing people.” says Payal.

Her sketch of superstar Amitabh Bachchan was appreciated by the senior actor himself on Twitter. Payal has held several exhibitions of her artwork and is recognized as a professional painter. Payal travels for her exhibitions and the various events she is invited to. She needs a caretaker all the time but feels that people with disabilities should not be scared of the outside world.

“My message for families of people with disabilities is not be over protective. People with disabilities can find their own individuality if they are allowed to be a part of the world. There are so many things to learn and see in life, both good and bad.”